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Journal formatting

American Economic Review

Citation, reference-list, manuscript-structure and length guidance from the journal's own author instructions.

Last verified by Theo (accuracy), Mara (plain-language). Source: AER submission guidelines

Citation style

For manuscripts prepared with bibliography software, AER prefers Chicago Manual author–date style.

Reference list

Fully reference prior work. In-paper appendices precede the references; essential evidence must remain in the paper rather than only in a supplement.

Manuscript structure

  1. First page with title, byline and affiliations
  2. Abstract of no more than 100 words
  3. Self-contained main text
  4. Optional in-paper appendices followed by references
  5. Optional separate Supplemental Appendix for nonessential extensions

Length and page limits

  • The average AER article is 35–36 typeset pages.
  • The journal strongly recommends no more than 40 pages at 11-point type or 45 pages at 12-point type, both with 1.5 spacing and 1-inch margins.
  • The suggested limit includes figures, tables, references and appendices.

Requirements vary by article type and can change. Check the linked author instructions again before submitting.

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